Economic Recession and Obesity-Related Internet Search Behavior in Taiwan: Analysis of Google Trends Data.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Obesity is highly correlated with the development of chronic diseases and has become a critical public health issue that must be countered by aggressive action. This study determined whether data from Google Trends could provide insight into trends in obesity-related search behaviors in Taiwan.

Objective

Using Google Trends, we examined how changes in economic conditions-using business cycle indicators as a proxy-were associated with people's internet search behaviors related to obesity awareness, health behaviors, and fast food restaurants.

Methods

Monthly business cycle indicators were obtained from the Taiwan National Development Council. Weekly Taiwan Stock Exchange (TWSE) weighted index data were accessed and downloaded from Yahoo Finance. The weekly r

SUBMITTER: Wang HW 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5910536 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature